Creating a Safe Easy-Access Bathroom
Creating a bathroom that is safe for all members of a household can be more difficult than one might imagine. The presence of so much water means that there is always the potential for slips and trips, and this is not always the best of environments for a member of the family who might suffer mobility issues. Creating a safe and easy-access bathroom should be a priority for such households. Here are some of the things needed for a truly safe, easy-access bathroom.
Space
One thing that must always be accounted for is space. Space in a bathroom can be a premium. It is not uncommon to see galley bathrooms or odd configurations to make do with the finite area that is available to them. However, this is not ideal when a member of the household might need more space, due to a wheelchair or any other reason.
As a reult, it might be necessary to convert another room into a bathroom, or split one in two and use one of the portions to extend an existing bathroom. You need to make sure that there is enough space for potentially both the disabled individual and a carer should they need assistance in the bathroom.
Image Source: JT Spas
Adapt Baths and Showers
When creating a safe and easy-access bathroom, you can have the choice of both a bath and a shower. Most people think that you will be limited to just one. However, if you have the space for both then you should think about installing them.
There are many options out there in terms of baths for disabled individuals. You will find many options for walk-in baths and other options that will make bathing that little bit easier to manage. If looking at walk-in showers instead, try to choose ones without a barrier at floor level. A typical raised shower tray could be a trip hazard. A shower without this barrier, when used with a good shower drain, should be easy to access while also not providing an environment where someone can easily slip. Do not think that adapting a bathroom for easy access means that you have to pick between a bath and a shower. There are plenty of options out there for both to be included in a safe manner.
Choose Thermostatic Valves
You need to think carefully about the rate at which hot water is able to come out of your taps when designing a safe bathroom. A sudden rush of scalding water, or likewise a sudden shower of freezing spray, could cause someone to startle and then potentially slip. This is a situation that should be avoided if at all possible.
For this reason, it is often best to choose a thermostatic faucet. This will help to limit and control the temperature of the water coming through it. A thermostatic valve on the shower and other valves in the bathroom will make it a much safer environment for both children and anyone else who uses the bathroom, whether they are disabled or not.
On top of these items, you could choose to add things like handrails and non-slip tiles to your bathroom. There are so many options out there to help you create a bathroom that is both safe and easy to access while still being a stylish and relaxing part of your home. This will give your disabled household members a place they can use, whether it is independently or with the assistance of a carer, and a safe environment for them to be in. Everyone deserves to have a beautiful bathroom that they can feel proud of. With some careful choices, you should have few issues adapting yours.